Definition of the word wrestle

The origin of the word "wrestle" can be traced back to the Old English word "rēotlan," which meant "to shake" or "to throw." When the Normans invaded England in 1066, they brought with them the French word "restrenger," which meant "to twist" or "to turn." The two words, "rēotlan" and "restrenger," eventually merged to form the Middle English word "wresten," which was spelled "wrasten" in some dialects. This Middle English word retained its original meaning of "to shake" or "to throw" in the context of physically grappling and subduing an opponent. The word "wrestle" first appeared in Old English texts in the form of "rēotlan" around 950 AD. It continued to be used throughout Middle English times, and eventually found its way into Early Modern English as "wrestle." Today, "wrestle" is widely used to describe the sport of wrestling, as well as more figurative uses such as "wrestle with depression" or "wrestled with the decision."